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People could protect their skin against sun-induced ageing by eating plenty of tomatoes, a new study suggests.

Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that neutralises harmful molecules called reactive oxygen species, which can damage the skin and cause wrinkling.

Researchers at the University of Manchester studied 20 people and found that those who ate five tablespoons of tomato paste per day were more able to withstand exposure to UV light than those who did not.

Tomato eaters were found to have 33 per cent more protection against sunburn, thereby reducing the risk of premature skin ageing and skin cancer.

Dr Muneeza Rizwan, who presented the findings at the British Society for Investigative Dermatology in Oxford, commented: 'These weren't huge amounts of tomato we were feeding the group.

'People should not think that tomatoes in any way can replace sun creams, but they may be a good additive. If you can improve your protection through your diet then over several years, this may have a significant effect.'

Dr Colin Holden of the British Association of Dermatologists added: 'While the protection offered by lycopene is low, this research suggests that a diet containing high levels of antioxidant-rich tomatoes could provide an extra tool in sun protection.'